Interleukin-10 and the immune response against cancer: a counterpoint

Anticancer effect of propranolol on diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocellular carcinoma rat model

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most widespread type of primary liver cancer. Diethylnitrosamine (DEN), a hepatotoxic hepatocarcinogenic compound, is used to induce HCC in animal models. The non-selective β-blocker propranolol demonstrated antiproliferative activity in many cancer types.

OBJECTIVE

This investigation aimed to evaluate the anticancer effect of propranolol against DEN-induced HCC in rats.

METHODS

Thirty adult male rats were divided into the following groups: Group I (C, control), Group II (HCC); received DEN, 70 mg/kg body weight (b.wt.) once a week for 10 weeks, to induce HCC, and Group III (HCC/Prop); received DEN for 10 weeks for HCC induction, then received 20 mg/kg b.wt. propranolol, intraperitoneally for four successive weeks.

RESULTS

HCC was developed in rats' livers and confirmed via significant liver architecture changes, significantly elevated activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), α-fetoprotein (AFP), total- and direct-bilirubin (Bil), and a decline in albumin (ALB) level in serum. HCC group demonstrated elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), HIF-1α, IL-8, NF-κB, PGE2, TGF-β1, VEGF, and CD8, but significant decline of GSH, and IL-10 level, with suppression of the antioxidant enzymes' activities. In addition, the gene expression of the hepatic inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and LAG-3 were up-regulated. Moreover, the protein expression of p-PKC was up-regulated, while that of PD-1 and PD-L1 were down-regulated in the liver tissues of the HCC group. However, propranolol ameliorated the investigated parameters in the HCC/Prop group.

CONCLUSION

Propranolol exhibited an anticancer effect and thus can be considered as a promising treatment for HCC. Blocking of PD-1/PD-L1 and LAG-3 signals participated in the anti-tumor effect of propranolol on HCC.

ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid alleviates systemic lupus erythematosus by suppressing autoimmunity in a murine model

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous autoimmune inflammatory disease that damages multiple organs by the production of autoantibodies. Numerous research studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). A diet rich in ω-3 PUFAs reduces chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Herein, we investigated the protective effect of ω-3 PUFAs against autoimmune injury in SLE. In a TMPD-induced mouse model of SLE, supplementation with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)-rich (97%) fish oil was found to alleviate systemic autoimmune phenotypes such as ascites, lipogranulomas and serum dsDNA levels. In addition, EPA also significantly improved renal manifestations, reducing proteinuria, glomerulonephritis, and immune complex deposition. Mechanistically, ω-3 PUFAs were shown to modulate the differentiation of B lymphocyte subsets of primary splenic lymphocytes in the spontaneous murine lupus model MRL/MpJ-Faslpr in vitro, specifically that both EPA and DHA suppressed the number of total B cells, B1B2 cells and plasma cells. Concurrently, they were also found to promote the secretion of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL10, mainly produced by Breg and Treg cells. Thus, nutritional supplementation with ω-3 PUFAs can regulate B cell's differentiation and anti-inflammatory function and strongly prevent autoimmune responses and lupus nephritis. The diets balance between ω-6 and ω-3 PUFAs intake may represent a promising treatment strategy to prevent or delay the onset of SLE.

A dual-role for IL-10: From leukemogenesis to the tumor progression in acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric cancer in the world, and accounts for 25% of all childhood cancers among children under 15 years of age. Longitudinal studies have shown that children with ALL are born with a deregulated immune response that, together with postnatal environmental exposures, favor the onset of the disease. In this context, IL-10, a key cytokine in the regulation of the immune response, presents itself as a paradoxical mediator, initially influencing the development of ALL through the regulation of inflammatory processes and later on the progression of malignancy, with the increase of this molecule in the leukemia microenvironment. According to the literature, this cytokine plays a critical role in the natural history of the disease and plays an important role in two different though complex scenarios. Thus, in this review, we explore the dual role of IL-10 in ALL, and describe its biological characteristics, immunological mechanisms and genetics, as well as its impact on the leukemia microenvironment and its clinical implications.

Serum cytokines and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as predictive biomarkers of benefit from PD-1 inhibitors in gastric cancer

Background

Immunotherapy is significantly revolutionizing cancer treatment and demonstrating promising efficacy in gastric cancer (GC) patients. However, only a subset of patients could derive benefits from targeted monoclonal antibody therapy against programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1). This study aims to identify suitable serum cytokines and blood cell ratios as predictive biomarkers to aid in the selection of GC patients likely to benefit from PD-1 inhibitors.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study included 41 GC patients who received PD-1 inhibitors combined with chemotherapy, 36 GC patients treated solely with chemotherapy, and 33 healthy controls. The study assessed the levels of seven cytokines: interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and various inflammatory markers, including the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), total lymphocyte count (TLC), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR). Measurements were obtained using the inpatient system. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to evaluate the predictive significance of these hematologic parameters for clinical outcomes.

Results

Levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, NLR, and PLR were significantly elevated in GC patients compared to healthy controls, while TLC and LMR were higher in the control group. Among the 41 patients receiving PD-1 inhibitors and chemotherapy, baseline IL-2 was associated with OS and PFS. Additionally, IL-6 and IL-17A correlated with OS, while NLR was linked to PFS (all P<0.05). These factors were identified as independent prognostic indicators in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Furthermore, almost all cytokine levels increased following the initiation of PD-1 inhibitor treatment.

Conclusions

The introduction of PD-1 inhibitors alongside chemotherapy in GC impacts serum cytokine levels. IL-2, IL-6, IL-17A, and NLR exhibit potential as reliable circulating predictive biomarkers for identifying patients who may benefit from PD-1 inhibitors combined with chemotherapy.

Production of an interleukin-10 blocking antibody by genetically engineered macrophages increases cancer cell death in human gastrointestinal tumor slice cultures

Although it can promote effector T-cell function, the summative effect of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) appears to be suppressive; therefore, blocking this critical regulatory cytokine has therapeutic potential to enhance antitumor immune function. As macrophages efficiently localize to the TME, we hypothesized that they could be used as a delivery vehicle for drugs designed to block this pathway. To test our hypothesis, we created and evaluated genetically engineered macrophages (GEMs) that produce an IL-10-blocking antibody (αIL-10). Healthy donor human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were differentiated and transduced with a novel lentivirus (LV) encoding BT-063, a humanized αIL-10 antibody. The efficacy of αIL-10 GEMs was assessed in human gastrointestinal tumor slice culture models developed from resected specimens of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma primary tumors and colorectal cancer liver metastases. LV transduction led to sustained production of BT-063 by αIL-10 GEMs for at least 21 days. Transduction did not alter GEM phenotype as evaluated by flow cytometry, but αIL-10 GEMs produced measurable quantities of BT-063 in the TME that was associated with an ~5-fold higher rate of tumor cell apoptosis than control.

The multifaceted nature of IL-10: regulation, role in immunological homeostasis and its relevance to cancer, COVID-19 and post-COVID conditions

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a pleiotropic cytokine that has a fundamental role in modulating inflammation and in maintaining cell homeostasis. It primarily acts as an anti-inflammatory cytokine, protecting the body from an uncontrolled immune response, mostly through the Jak1/Tyk2 and STAT3 signaling pathway. On the other hand, IL-10 can also have immunostimulating functions under certain conditions. Given the pivotal role of IL-10 in immune modulation, this cytokine could have relevant implications in pathologies characterized by hyperinflammatory state, such as cancer, or infectious diseases as in the case of COVID-19 and Post-COVID-19 syndrome. Recent evidence proposed IL-10 as a predictor of severity and mortality for patients with acute or post-acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this context, IL-10 can act as an endogenous danger signal, released by tissues undergoing damage in an attempt to protect the organism from harmful hyperinflammation. Pharmacological strategies aimed to potentiate or restore IL-10 immunomodulatory action may represent novel promising avenues to counteract cytokine storm arising from hyperinflammation and effectively mitigate severe complications. Natural bioactive compounds, derived from terrestrial or marine photosynthetic organisms and able to increase IL-10 expression, could represent a useful prevention strategy to curb inflammation through IL-10 elevation and will be discussed here. However, the multifaceted nature of IL-10 has to be taken into account in the attempts to modulate its levels.

Acute/chronic exposure to bisphenol A induced immunotoxicity in zebrafish and its potential association with pancreatic cancer risk

Previous studies have confirmed that bisphenol A (BPA) induced immune toxicity and affected diseases, however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. In the present study, zebrafish was employed as the model to assess the immunotoxicity and the potential disease risk of BPA exposure. Upon BPA exposure, a series of abnormalities were found, which included the increased oxidative stress, damaged innate and adaptive immune functions and the elevated insulin and blood glucose levels. According to the target prediction and RNA sequencing data of BPA, the differential expression genes were found enriched in immune- and pancreatic cancer-related pathway and process, and the potential role of stat3 in the regulation of these processes was revealed. The key immune- and pancreatic cancer-related genes were selected for further confirmation by RT-qPCR. Based on the changes in the expression levels of these genes, our hypothesis that BPA induced the occurrence of pancreatic cancer by modulating immune responses was further evidenced. Deeper mechanism was further disclosed by molecular dock simulation and survival analysis of key genes, proving that BPA stably bound to STAT3 and IL10 and STAT3 may serve as the target of BPA-inducing pancreatic cancer. These results are of great significance in deepening the molecular mechanism of immunotoxicity induced by BPA and our understanding of the risk assessment of contaminants.

mRNAs encoding IL-12 and a decoy-resistant variant of IL-18 synergize to engineer T cells for efficacious intratumoral adoptive immunotherapy

Interleukin-12 (IL-12) gene transfer enhances the therapeutic potency of adoptive T cell therapies. We previously reported that transient engineering of tumor-specific CD8 T cells with IL-12 mRNA enhanced their systemic therapeutic efficacy when delivered intratumorally. Here, we mix T cells engineered with mRNAs to express either single-chain IL-12 (scIL-12) or an IL-18 decoy-resistant variant (DRIL18) that is not functionally hampered by IL-18 binding protein (IL-18BP). These mRNA-engineered T cell mixtures are repeatedly injected into mouse tumors. Pmel-1 T cell receptor (TCR)-transgenic T cells electroporated with scIL-12 or DRIL18 mRNAs exert powerful therapeutic effects in local and distant melanoma lesions. These effects are associated with T cell metabolic fitness, enhanced miR-155 control on immunosuppressive target genes, enhanced expression of various cytokines, and changes in the glycosylation profile of surface proteins, enabling adhesiveness to E-selectin. Efficacy of this intratumoral immunotherapeutic strategy is recapitulated in cultures of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells on IL-12 and DRIL18 mRNA electroporation.

Non-covalent π-π functionalized Gii-senseⓇ graphene foam for interleukin 10 impedimetric detection

Monitoring Interleukin 10 (IL-10) is essential for understanding the vast responses of T-cells in cancer, autoimmunity, and internal homeostasis after physical stress. However, current diagnostic methods are complex and more focused on medical screening rather than point-of-care monitoring. Biosensors based on graphene's conductivity and flexibility are attractive to offer simple single-use and reduced handling. However, oxidation of its carbon lattice to develop functional moieties for biomolecule immobilization cuts down its electronic conductivity potential. In this work, the authors present a microfluidic lab-on-chip device for simple impedimetric monitoring of IL-10 based on graphene foam (GF) flexible electrodes. Graphene's structure was maintained by employing π-π non-covalent functionalization with pyrene carboxylic acid (PCA). Impedimetric measurements could be performed in low ionic strength phosphate-buffered saline (LI-PBS). The PCA-antibody modification showed to endure the incubation, measurement, and washing processes performed in the microfluidic device. Electrode modification and measurements were characterized by, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), contact angle, and scanning electron microscopy. From the contact angle results, we found that the wettability of the graphene surface increased gradually after each modification step. Detection measurements performed in the 3D-printed microfluidic device showed a linear response between 10 fg/mL to 100 fg/mL with a limit of detection (LOD) of 7.89 fg/mL in artificial saliva. With these features, the device was used to quantify IL-10 samples by the standard addition method for 10 fg and 50 fg with recoveries between 82% and 99%. Specificity was evaluated towards interleukin 6, TNF-⍺ and bovine serum albumin.

A novel risk model based on the correlation between the expression of basement membrane genes and immune infiltration to predict the invasiveness of pituitary adenomas

Objective

Invasive pituitary adenomas (IPAs) are common tumors of the nervous system tumors for which invasive growth can lead to difficult total resection and a high recurrence rate. The basement membrane (BM) is a special type of extracellular matrix and plays an important role in the invasion of pituitary adenomas (PAs). The aim of this study was to develop a risk model for predicting the invasiveness of PAs by analyzing the correlation between the expression of BM genes and immune infiltration.

Methods

Four datasets, featuring samples IPAs and non-invasive pituitary adenomas (NIPAs), were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO). R software was then used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and analyze their functional enrichment. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was used to screen BM genes, which were analyzed for immune infiltration; this led to the generation of a risk model based on the correlation between the expression of BM genes and immunity. A calibration curve and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to evaluate and validate the model. Subsequently, the differential expression levels of BM genes between IPA and NIPA samples collected in surgery were verified by Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) and the prediction model was further evaluated. Finally, based on our analysis, we recommend potential drug targets for the treatment of IPAs.

Results

The merged dataset identified 248 DEGs that were mainly enriching in signal transduction, the extracellular matrix and channel activity. The PPI network identified 11 BM genes from the DEGs: SPARCL1, GPC3, LAMA1, SDC4, GPC4, ADAMTS8, LAMA2, LAMC3, SMOC1, LUM and THBS2. Based on the complex correlation between these 11 genes and immune infiltration, a risk model was established to predict PAs invasiveness. Calibration curve and ROC curve analysis (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.7886194) confirmed the good predictive ability of the model. The consistency between the qPCR results and the bioinformatics results confirmed the reliability of data mining.

Conclusion

Using a variety of bioinformatics methods, we developed a novel risk model to predict the probability of PAs invasion based on the correlation between 11 BM genes and immune infiltration. These findings may facilitate closer surveillance and early diagnosis to prevent or treat IPAs in patients and improve the clinical awareness of patients at high risk of IPAs.

Immunometabolism in the tumor microenvironment and its related research progress

The tumor immune microenvironment has been a research hot spot in recent years. The cytokines and metabolites in the microenvironment can promote the occurrence and development of tumor in various ways and help tumor cells get rid of the surveillance of the immune system and complete immune escape. Many studies have shown that the existence of tumor microenvironment is an important reason for the failure of immunotherapy. The impact of the tumor microenvironment on tumor is a systematic study. The current research on this aspect may be only the tip of the iceberg, and a relative lack of integrity, may be related to the heterogeneity of tumor. This review mainly discusses the current status of glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism in the tumor microenvironment, including the phenotype of glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism in the microenvironment; the effects of these metabolic methods and their metabolites on three important immune cells Impact: regulatory T cells (Tregs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAM), natural killer cells (NK cells); and the impact of metabolism in the targeted microenvironment on immunotherapy. At the end of this article,the potential relationship between Ferroptosis and the tumor microenvironment in recent years is also briefly described.

Comparative analysis of the immune response to RFA and cryoablation in a colon cancer mouse model

The immune response to radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and cryoablation (CRA) was characterized and compared in a colon cancer mouse model. All studies were conducted under a research protocol approved by the National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Animal Care and Use Committee. BALB/cJ mice were inoculated with CT26 cells, and randomized to RFA, CRA, or sham treatment. Mice were sacrificed 3 days post-treatment, and tumor, spleen, and serum were harvested. Cell death was determined by Caspase-3 immunohistochemical and TUNEL stains. Immune response was analyzed using flow cytometry, serum cytokine assay and immunohistochemistry. Cell death, necrosis, and apoptosis induced by ablation were comparable in RFA and CRA. Decreased frequency of systemic T-regulatory cells was found in the CRA group. Both RFA and CRA reduced frequencies of several myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) subpopulations. RFA induced pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion including TNF-α and IL-12 as well as anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-5, and IL-10. CRA augmented secretion of a wider array of cytokines compared to RFA with both pro- and anti-inflammatory properties including IL-1β, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, and KC GRO. In the tumor microenvironment, RFA reduced the number of T-regulatory cells, a finding not observed with CRA. Reduction of immune suppression via decreases in T-regulatory cells and MDSC was found to be induced by RFA or CRA. CRA augmented a wider range of cytokines than RFA, which were mainly pro-inflammatory, but also anti-inflammatory. In the tumor microenvironment, RFA demonstrated more pronounced anti-tumoral immunity. Further delineation of specific immunomodulation induced by ablation could inform drug-device development and may play a role in future hypothesis-driven immunomodulatory paradigms that combine immunotherapy drugs with tumor destruction for the treatment of metastatic colon cancer.

Application progress of liquid biopsy in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors globally. Guiding the individualized treatment of GC is the focus of research. Obtaining representative biological samples to study the biological characteristics of GC is the focus of diagnosis and treatment of GC. Liquid biopsy technology can use high-throughput sequencing technology to detect biological genetic information in blood. Compared with traditional tissue biopsy, liquid biopsy can determine the dynamic changes of tumor. As a noninvasive auxiliary diagnostic method, liquid biopsy can provide diagnostic and prognostic information concerning the progression of the disease. Liquid biopsy includes circulating tumor cells, circulating tumor DNA, circulating tumor RNA, tumor educated platelets, exosomes, and cytokines. This article describes the classification of liquid biopsy and its application value in the occurrence, development, and therapeutic efficacy of GC.

Targeting SNORA38B attenuates tumorigenesis and sensitizes immune checkpoint blockade in non-small cell lung cancer by remodeling the tumor microenvironment via regulation of GAB2/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), are widely involved in the physiological and pathological processes of human beings. While up to date, although considerable progress has been achieved in ncRNA-related pathogenesis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the underlying mechanisms and biological significance of snoRNAs in NSCLC still need to be further clarified.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction or RNAscope was performed to verify the expression of Small Nucleolar RNA, H/ACA Box 38B (SNORA38B) in NSCLC cell lines or clinical samples. BALB/c nude mice xenograft model or C57BL/6J mice syngeneic tumor model were estimated to detect the effects of SNORA38B in tumor growth or tumor immune microenvironment in vivo. Cytometry by time of flight, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and flow cytometry assay were conducted to clarify the effects and mechanisms of SNORA38B-mediated tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment. The binding activity between SNORA38B and E2F transcription factor 1(E2F1) was detected by RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down assays. Then, bioinformatics analysis and chromatin immunoprecipitation were utilized to demonstrate the regulation of GRB2-associated-binding protein 2 (GAB2) by E2F1. Moreover, the combinatorial treatment of SNORA38B locked nucleic acid (LNA) and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) was used to treat murine Lewis lung carcinoma-derived tumor burden C57BL/6J mice to clarify the effectiveness of targeting SNORA38B in NSCLC immunotherapy.

RESULTS

SNORA38B was found highly expressed in NSCLC tissues and cell lines, and associated with worse prognosis. Further results showed that SNORA38B functioned as an oncogene via facilitating cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and inhibiting cell apoptosis in vitro and promoting tumorigenesis of NSCLC cells in vivo. SNORA38B could also recruit the CD4+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells by triggering tumor cells to secrete interleukin 10, which in turn reduced the infiltration of CD3+CD8+ T cells in NSCLC tumor microenvironment (TME), favoring tumor progression and poorer immune efficacy. Mechanistically, SNORA38B mainly distributed in the nucleus, and promoted NSCLC progression by regulating GAB2 transcription to activate protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway through directly binding with E2F1. Moreover, we found that SNORA38B LNAs were able to ameliorate CD3+CD8+ T cell infiltration in TME, which sensitized NSCLC to the treatment of ICB.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our data demonstrated that SNORA38B functioned as an oncogene in NSCLC both in vitro and in vivo at least in part by regulating the GAB2/AKT/mTOR pathway via directly binding to E2F1. SNORA38B could also sensitize NSCLC to immunotherapy, which may be a critical therapeutic target for NSCLC.

Roles and new Insights of Macrophages in the Tumor Microenvironment of Thyroid Cancer

Although most thyroid cancers have a good and predictable prognosis, the anaplastic, medullary, and refractory thyroid cancers still prone to recurrence and metastasis, resulting in poor prognosis. Although a number of newly developed targeted therapies have begun to be indicated for the above types of thyroid cancer in recent years, their ability to improve overall survival remain hindered by low efficacy. As the largest component of immune cells in tumor microenvironment, tumor-associated macrophages play a key role in the invasion and metastasis of thyroid cancer. There is much evidence that the immune system, tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cell interactions may revolutionize traditional therapeutic directions. Tumor-associated macrophages have been extensively studied in a variety of tumors, however, research on the relationship between thyroid cancer and macrophages is still insufficient. In this review, we summarize the functions of tumor-associated macrophages in different types of thyroid cancer, their cytokines or chemokines effect on thyroid cancer and the mechanisms that promote tumor proliferation and migration. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms by which tumor-associated macrophages maintain the stemness of thyroid cancer and potential strategies for targeting tumor-associated macrophages to treat thyroid cancer.

The relationship between night shift work and breast cancer incidence: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between night shift work and breast cancer (BC) incidence. A search was performed in PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases before June 2021. The exposure factor of this study is night shift work, the primary outcome is the risk of BC. A total of 33 observational studies composed of 4,331,782 participants were included. Night shift work increases the risk of BC in the female population (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.20, 95% confidence interval [Cl] = 1.10–1.31, p < 0.001), especially receptor-positive BC, including estrogen receptor (ER)+ BC (HR = 1.35, p < 0.001), progesterone receptor (PR)+ BC (HR = 1.30, p = 0.003), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)+ BC (HR = 1.42, p < 0.001), but has no effect on HER2− BC (HR = 1.10, p = 0.515) and ER−/PR− BC (HR = 0.98, p = 0.827). The risk of BC was positively correlated with night shift working duration, frequency, and cumulative times. For women who start night work before menopause, night work will increase the incidence of BC (HR = 1.17, p = 0.020), but for women who start night work after menopause, night work does not affect BC (HR = 1.04, p = 0.293). Night work can increase the incidence of BC in the female population. The effect of long working hours, frequency, and the cumulative number of night shifts on BC is influenced by menopausal status.

Antigen-Specific TCR-T Cells for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: State of the Art and Challenges

The cytogenetic abnormalities and molecular mutations involved in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) lead to unique treatment challenges. Although adoptive T-cell therapies (ACT) such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy have shown promising results in the treatment of leukemias, especially B-cell malignancies, the optimal target surface antigen has yet to be discovered for AML. Alternatively, T-cell receptor (TCR)-redirected T cells can target intracellular antigens presented by HLA molecules, allowing the exploration of a broader territory of new therapeutic targets. Immunotherapy using adoptive transfer of WT1 antigen-specific TCR-T cells, for example, has had positive clinical successes in patients with AML. Nevertheless, AML can escape from immune system elimination by producing immunosuppressive factors or releasing several cytokines. This review presents recent advances of antigen-specific TCR-T cells in treating AML and discusses their challenges and future directions in clinical applications.

Genetic Variants in Interleukin-10 Gene Association with Susceptibility and Cervical Cancer Development: A Case Control Study

Objectives  Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most destructive disease caused by persistent HPV infection which affects women worldwide, especially in developing countries. The genetic basis of host immune response especially cytokine function has been shown to influence CC susceptibility. Studies have demonstrated that IL-10 gene polymorphism have been associated with numerous malignancies, but in context to CC results were inconclusive. Though, aim of our study to investigate the association between IL-10 -1082A/G and -819C/T promoter polymorphism and CC susceptibility.

Material and Methods  This study comprised 192 women with CC and 200 controls. HPV detection was done by RT-PCR and genotyping was assessed through PCR-RFLP method. Serum concentration of IL-10 measured by ELISA.

Results  Women with AG and AG+GG genotypes of IL-10 -1082A/G had two-fold increased risk of CC [OR, 2.35 (95% CI, 1.54–3.58), p  = 0.005], [OR, 2.03 (95% CI, 1.36–3.04), p  = 0.0005] compared to controls. Women with G allele of -1082A/G polymorphism had linked with CC susceptibility [OR, 1.39 (95% CI, 1.02–1.88), p  = 0.036] compared to controls. No significant difference was found between patients and controls in the genotype or allele frequencies of IL–10 -819C/T polymorphism [OR, 1.00 (95% CI, 0.63–1.58), p  = 0.99]. The level of serum concentration of IL-10 was significantly higher in cases compared to controls.

Conclusion  These findings help to understand that polymorphism of IL-10 -1082A/G gene is associated with increased risk of CC development and can serve as a marker of genetic susceptibility to CC.

The association between the inflammatory response following surgery and post-operative delirium in older oncological patients: a prospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Post-operative delirium (POD) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates in older patients. Neuroinflammation, the activation of the intrinsic immune system of the brain, seems to be one of the mechanisms behind the development of POD. The aim of this study was to explore the association between the perioperative inflammatory response and the development of POD in a cohort of older oncological patients in need for surgery.

METHODS

In this prospective cohort study, patients 65 years and older in need for oncologic surgery were included. Inflammatory markers C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), IL-6, IL10 and Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) were measured in plasma samples pre- and post-operatively. Delirium Observation Screening Scale (DOS) was used as screening instrument for POD in the first week after surgery. In case of positive screening, diagnosis of POD was assessed by a clinician.

RESULTS

Between 2010 and 2016, plasma samples of 311 patients with median age of 72 years (range 65-89) were collected. A total of 38 (12%) patients developed POD in the first week after surgery. The perioperative increase in plasma levels of IL-10 and NGAL were associated with POD in multivariate logistic regression analysis (OR 1.33 [1.09-1.63] P = 0.005 and OR 1.30 [1.03-1.64], P = 0.026, respectively). The biomarkers CRP, IL-1β and IL-6 were not significantly associated with POD.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased surgery-evoked inflammatory responses of IL-10 and NGAL are associated with the development of POD in older oncological patients. The outcomes of this study contribute to understanding the aetiology of neuroinflammation and the development of POD.

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of PLGA Nanoparticles Produced From Kombucha Extract on A2780 Human Ovarian Cancer Cell Line

Background: Anti-cancer agents encapsulated in nanoparticles (NPs) can result in higher efficiency. Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage, and previous reports support its anti-cancer properties. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) loaded Kombucha NPs (PLGA-K-NPs) against the A2780 human ovarian cancer cell line. Methods: The antioxidant activity was analyzed using ferric reducing ability of plasma and 2,2’-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assays, along with the measurement of catalase (CAT) gene expression. The gene expression of three interleukins (IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10) was also determined to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory properties of NPs. Results: The results revealed the antioxidant effects of PLGA-K-NPs on the studied cell lines by increasing Fe3+ reduction, inhibiting the free radical formation (P<0.001), and increasing the expression of the CAT gene (P<0.001). In addition, NPs could significantly elevate the gene expression of IL-10 (P<0.01) as an anti-inflammatory cytokine at a 40 µg/mL concentration, while reducing the expression of IL-1β and IL-6, and inflammatory cytokines at all tested concentrations (P<0.01). Conclusion: According to the obtained results, PLGA-K-NPs have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, therefore, they can be considered as a compound in the treatment of ovarian cancer. However, it needs to be further investigated in animal studies to clarify more details.

Identification of Potential Prognostic and Predictive Immunological Biomarkers in Patients with Stage I and Stage III Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): A Prospective Exploratory Study

Radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy can induce immune responses, but not much is known regarding treatment-induced immune changes in patients. This exploratory study aimed to identify potential prognostic and predictive immune-related proteins associated with progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this prospective study, patients with stage I NSCLC treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy (n = 26) and patients with stage III NSCLC treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (n = 18) were included. Blood samples were collected before (v1), during (v2), and after RT (v3). In patients with stage I NSCLC, CD244 (HR: 10.2, 95% CI: 1.8-57.4) was identified as a negative prognostic biomarker. In patients with stage III NSCLC, CR2 and IFNGR2 were identified as positive prognostic biomarkers (CR2, HR: 0.00, 95% CI: 0.00-0.12; IFNGR2, HR: 0.04, 95% CI: 0.00-0.46). In addition, analysis of the treatment-induced changes of circulating protein levels over time (Δv2/v3-v1) also identified CXCL10 and IL-10 as negative predictive biomarkers (CXCL10, HR: 3.86, 95% CI: 1.0-14.7; IL-10, HR: 16.92 (2.74-104.36)), although serum-induced interferon (IFN) response was a positive prognostic. In conclusion, we identified several circulating immunogenic proteins that are correlated with PFS in patients with stage I and stage III NSCLC before and during treatment.

Expression dynamics of the immune mediators ARG1, TBET, CIITA, IL10 and TGFB1 in chronic myeloid leukaemia patients during the first year of imatinib therapy

The use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors seems to restore the broadly compromised immune system described in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) patients at diagnosis leading to a re-activation of the effector-mediated immune surveillance. Here, we describe the expression dynamics of immune factors during the first year on imatinib therapy. Gene expression was evaluated in 132 peripheral blood samples from 79 CML patients, including 34 who were serially followed. An aliquot of the stored sample used to monitor BCR-ABL1 levels was retro-transcribed to cDNA and gene expression was quantified by real-time PCR. An elevated expression of ARG1 was observed at diagnosis, while TBET, CIITA, IL10 and TGFB1 were significantly decreased. Once on therapy, each gene displayed a particular behaviour. ARG1 normalized to control levels at 3 months only in optimal molecular responders and was identified as the major contributor to the difference among patients. TBET reached normal levels after 12 months in optimal responders and non-responders, regardless the Th1-response previously associated, and CIITA continued downregulated. IL10 and TGFB1 achieved normal levels early at 3 months in both groups, afterwards IL10 was sustained while TGFB1 was slightly increased after 1 year in responders. Our findings are in agreement with an immune re-activation after imatinib initiation; however, some immune mediators may require a longer exposition. The follow-up of novel and reliable biomarkers, such as ARG1, one of the principal mechanisms of myeloid-derived-suppressor cells to inhibit immune system, may be useful to deepen the characterization of early responder patients.

Polymersomes Decorated with the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Receptor-Binding Domain Elicit Robust Humoral and Cellular Immunity

The COVID-19 pandemic underscores the need for rapid, safe, and effective vaccines. In contrast to some traditional vaccines, nanoparticle-based subunit vaccines are particularly efficient in trafficking antigens to lymph nodes, where they induce potent immune cell activation. Here, we developed a strategy to decorate the surface of oxidation-sensitive polymersomes with multiple copies of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) to mimic the physical form of a virus particle. We evaluated the vaccination efficacy of these surface-decorated polymersomes (RBDsurf) in mice compared to RBD-encapsulated polymersomes (RBDencap) and unformulated RBD (RBDfree), using monophosphoryl-lipid-A-encapsulated polymersomes (MPLA PS) as an adjuvant. While all three groups produced high titers of RBD-specific IgG, only RBDsurf elicited a neutralizing antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 comparable to that of human convalescent plasma. Moreover, RBDsurf was the only group to significantly increase the proportion of RBD-specific germinal center B cells in the vaccination-site draining lymph nodes. Both RBDsurf and RBDencap drove similarly robust CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses that produced multiple Th1-type cytokines. We conclude that a multivalent surface display of spike RBD on polymersomes promotes a potent neutralizing antibody response to SARS-CoV-2, while both antigen formulations promote robust T cell immunity.

Up-regulation of miR-663a inhibits the cancer stem cell-like properties of glioma via repressing the KDM2A-mediated TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway

Emerging reports have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) function as vital regulators in tumor development via modulating gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. Here, we explored the role and underlying mechanism of miR-663a in the proliferation, migration, invasion, and cancer stem cell-like (CSC) properties of glioma cells. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) was implemented to detect miR-663a expression in glioblastoma tissues and the adjacent normal tissues. Additionally, gain- and loss-of-function assays of miR-633a were performed on U-251 MG cells or human primary glioblastoma cancer cells (pGBMC1). Cell proliferation, migration, invasion, CSC properties, and profiles of stem cell markers (including CD133, CD44) were examined by the MTT assay, Transwell assay, tumorsphere experiment, and Western blotting, respectively. The dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was performed to testify the targeted relationship between miR-663a and lysine demethylase 2A (KDM2A). The results showed that miR-663a was down-regulated in glioblastoma tissues and cells. Overexpressing miR-663a repressed the proliferation, migration, invasion, CSC properties of U-251 MG cells and pGBMC1, while miR-663a knockdown had the opposite effects. The in-vivo experiment confirmed that miR-663a repressed the growth of U-251 MG cells in nude mice. When cocultured with THP1 cells, U-251 MG cells gained enhanced proliferation, migration, invasion, and CSC properties. MiR-633a overexpression reversed THP1-mediated effects on U-251 MG cells, and reduced the "M2" polarization of THP1 cells. What's more, Mechanistically, KDM2A was targeted by miR-663a. KDM2A knockdown suppressed the progression and CSC properties of U-251 MG cells in vitro, and dampened TGF-β. Overall, those data revealed that up-regulating miR-663a reduced glioma progression by inhibiting the KDM2A-mediated TGF-β/Smad pathway.

Anticancer, antiplatelet, gastroprotective and hepatoprotective effects of camel urine: A scoping review

Camel urine has traditionally been used to treat multiple human diseases and possesses the most beneficial effects amongst the urine of other animals. However, scientific review evaluating the anticancer, antiplatelet, gastroprotective and hepatoprotective effects of camel urine is still scarce. Thus, this scoping review aimed to provide scientific evidence on the therapeutic potentials of camel urine. Three databases were searched to identify relevant articles (Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus) up to September 2020. Original articles published in English that investigated the effects of camel urine in various diseases were included. The literature search identified six potential articles that met all the inclusion criteria. Three articles showed that camel urine possesses cytotoxic activities against different types of cancer cells. Two studies revealed camel urine's protective effects against liver toxicity and gastric ulcers, whilst another study showed the role of camel urine as an antiplatelet agent. All studies demonstrated significant positive effects with different effective dosages. Thus, camel urine shows promising therapeutic potential in treating human diseases, especially cancer. However, the standardised dosage and potential side effects should be determined before camel urine could be offered as an alternative treatment.

Interleukin-10-592 polymorphism: impact on relapse and survival after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children with hematological malignancies

Purpose

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) potentially can promote the development of alloimmunity. The aim of this study was to investigate if the IL-10-592 CC genotype in the donor reduces the risk of relapse after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and if that has an impact on event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS).

Methods

A cohort of 211 children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (n = 99), acute myeloid leukemia (n = 69), myelodysplastic syndrome (n = 31) or chronic myeloid leukemia (n = 12) who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in a single center and their respective donors were genotyped of IL-10 gene for rs1800872 using TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The IL-10-592 CC genotype was detected in 107 of the 211 donors (50.7%) and in 106 of the 211 patients (50.2%). Genotype AC was found in 95 donors (45.0%) and in 90 patients (42.7%). Nine donors (4.3%) and 15 patients (7.1%) were homozygous for AA. Ultimately, we observed a significantly reduced incidence of relapse rate (RR) in patients who were transplanted from a donor with the IL-10-592 CC genotype (19% versus 43% (AC) versus 49% (AA); P = 0.0007). In addition, a significant increase of EFS (P = 0.004) and OS (P = 0.006) was detected if the IL-10-592 CC genotype is present in the donor. The occurrence of the IL-10-592 CC genotype, in either donors or recipients, had no significant impact on acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease. In addition, the IL-10-592 genotype of the recipients was not relevant for the RR (P = 0.47434), the EFS (P = 0.840), and the OS (P = 0.535).

Conclusion

The IL-10-592 CC genotype in the donor was associated with a significant decrease of RR which led to a significant increase of EFS and OS after HSCT. This is the first study to describe an association of the IL-10 gene polymorphism with RR, EFS, and OS after HSCT. Selecting a donor with the IL-10-592 CC genotype could be a useful therapeutic strategy for improving the outcome after allogeneic HSCT.

Clinical Application of Cytokines in Cancer Immunotherapy

Cytokines are key components of the immune system and play pivotal roles in anticancer immune response. Cytokines as either therapeutic agents or targets hold clinical promise for cancer precise treatment. Here, we provide an overview of the various roles of cytokines in the cancer immunity cycle, with a particular focus on the clinical researches of cytokine-based drugs in cancer therapy. We review 27 cytokines in 2630 cancer clinical trials registered with ClinicalTrials.gov that had completed recruitment up to January 2021 while summarizing important cases for each cytokine. We also discuss recent progress in methods for improving the delivery efficiency, stability, biocompatibility, and availability of cytokines in therapeutic applications.

Polymersomes decorated with SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor binding domain elicit robust humoral and cellular immunity

A diverse portfolio of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidates is needed to combat the evolving COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we developed a subunit nanovaccine by conjugating SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD) to the surface of oxidation-sensitive polymersomes. We evaluated the humoral and cellular responses of mice immunized with these surface-decorated polymersomes (RBDsurf) compared to RBD-encapsulated polymersomes (RBDencap) and unformulated RBD (RBDfree), using monophosphoryl lipid A-encapsulated polymersomes (MPLA PS) as an adjuvant. While all three groups produced high titers of RBD-specific IgG, only RBDsurf elicited a neutralizing antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 comparable to that of human convalescent plasma. Moreover, RBDsurf was the only group to significantly increase the proportion of RBD-specific germinal center B cells in the vaccination-site draining lymph nodes. Both RBDsurf and RBDencap drove similarly robust CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses that produced multiple Th1-type cytokines. We conclude that multivalent surface display of Spike RBD on polymersomes promotes a potent neutralizing antibody response to SARS-CoV-2, while both antigen formulations promote robust T cell immunity.

Immune System Efficiency in Cancer and the Microbiota Influence

The immune system plays a critical role in preventing cancer development and progression. However, the complex network of cells and soluble factor that form the tumor microenvironment (TME) can dictate the differentiation of tumor-infiltrating leukocytes and shift the antitumor immune response into promoting tumor growth. With the advent of cancer immunotherapy, there has been a reinvigorated interest in defining how the TME shapes the antitumor immune response. This interest brought to light the microbiome as a novel player in shaping cancer immunosurveillance. Indeed, accumulating evidence now suggests that the microbiome may confer susceptibility or resistance to certain cancers and may influence response to therapeutics, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors. As we move forward into the age of precision medicine, it is vital that we define the factors that influence the interplay between the triad immune system-microbiota-cancer. This knowledge will contribute to improve the therapeutic response to current approaches and will unravel novel targets for immunotherapy.

Killing the Invaders: NK Cell Impact in Tumors and Anti-Tumor Therapy

Simple Summary

NK cells are innate lymphoid cells involved in the control of tumor growth and metastatic spread. Given their significant cytolytic capacity, several promising strategies have been developed to target NK cells in cancer immunotherapy.

Abstract

Natural Killer cells belong to group 1 innate lymphoid cells, which also includes ILC1s. NK/ILC1s are highly heterogeneous cell types showing distinct phenotypes across tissues and conditions. NK cells have long been described as innate lymphocytes able to directly and rapidly kill tumor cells without antigen-restriction. Different mechanisms were shown to modulate NK cell activation and tumor resistance, mainly based on cytokine stimulation and receptor–ligand interactions, and several strategies have been developed to target NK cells in tumor immunotherapy to promote NK cell function and overcome tumor evasion. The characterization of ILC1 distinct phenotype and function and the specific role in tumors still needs further investigation and will be essential to better understand the impact of innate lymphoid cells in tumors. Here, we review key aspects of NK cell biology that are relevant in tumor immune surveillance, emphasizing the most recent findings in the field. We describe the novel therapeutical strategies that have been developed in tumor immunotherapy targeting NK cells, and we summarize some recent findings related to NK cell/ILC1 transition in tumor models.

Impact of IL-10 Promoter Polymorphisms and IL-10 Serum Levels on Advanced Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Survival Rate

BACKGROUND/AIM

Prognosis of advanced stages of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) remains poor. To clarify therapeutic targets and improve survival rate, identification of new specific and prognostic biomarkers of LSCC is required. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of IL-10:rs1800871, rs1800872, rs1800896 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and IL-10 serum levels on LSCC development and determine associations of selected SNPs with patient survival rate.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 300 LSCC patients and 533 controls were included in the study. Genotyping was carried out using RT-PCR; IL-10 serum levels were analyzed by ELISA.

RESULTS

Significant associations were identified between IL-10 rs1800871 variants and advanced stage of LSCC patient group in the codominant, recessive and additive models (OR=0.473, p=0.027; OR=0.510, p=0.040; and OR=0.733; p=0.037). Significant variants of IL-10 rs1800872 were determined in the codominant, recessive and additive models (OR=0.473, p=0.027; OR=0.510, p=0.040; and OR=0.733, p=0.037). The distribution of IL-10 SNPs genotypes did not impact LSCC patient survival rate (respectively, p=0.952; p=0.952; p=0.991).

CONCLUSION

IL-10:rs1800871 and rs1800872 SNPs are associated with advanced stage of LSCC. The genotypic distribution of IL-10 SNPs does not influence the survival rate of LSCC patients.

Clinical significance of interleukin-10 concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma

The diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is challenging due to the lack of sensitive biomarkers. The present study aimed to evaluate the value of interleukin (IL)-10 in this context. Between October 2016 and December 2018, 91 patients with suspected intracranial neoplasms were recruited, and the concentrations of IL-10 or IL-6 in both the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood were measured and analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis test. The correlation between CSF IL-6 or IL-10 levels and tumor size was determined by Spearman's coefficient analysis. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic value of CSF IL-6 and IL-10 levels. Median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival time were calculated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Among the 91 patients, 3 were diagnosed with PCNSL on the basis of neuroimaging data and CSF IL-10 levels. A total of 35 cases were verified to show diffuse large B-cell lymphoma on histological assessment, 17 of which were diagnosed as PCNSL by MRI. The median PFS and OS were 8.00 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 3.94-12.06) and 17.5 months (95% CI, 11.55-23.45) respectively in the 12 PNCSL cases with regular follow up. The diagnostic efficiency of serum IL-6 levels was lower than that of serum IL-10 levels (P=0.030), which, in turn, was lower than that of CSF IL-10 levels (P<0.001). The decline and increase in CSF IL-10 levels was concurrent with improvement and deterioration in manifestation, respectively, which predated the MRI variation. High CSF IL-10 levels indicated low Karnofsky performance scale scores and shortened PFS times. CSF IL-10 levels higher than 1,000 pg/ml signified disease progression. CSF IL-10 levels could be a sensitive biomarker guiding the differential diagnosis, early recurrence detection, prognostic evaluation and therapeutic strategy establishment in cases of PCNSL.

Association between polymorphisms in the interleukin-10 gene and susceptibility to human immunodeficiency virus-1 infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This study meta-analyzed the literature on possible association of 3 polymorphisms (-592, -1082, -819) in the interleukin-10 (IL-10) gene with susceptibility to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 infection.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE and Google Scholar were systematically searched to identify relevant studies in English. Meta-analyses were performed to examine the association of IL-10 polymorphisms -592, -1082, and -819 with susceptibility to HIV-1 infection.

RESULTS

A significant association between the -592 polymorphism and susceptibility to HIV-1 infection was found in the total population (recessive model, odds ratios (OR) = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.06-1.96, P = .02; homozygous model, OR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.02-2.02, P = .04). However, these results were not observed in subgroups based on ethnicity. The -1082 polymorphism was significantly associated with susceptibility to HIV-1 infection in Caucasians (OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.05-1.62, P = .02; recessive model, OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.09-2.03, P = .01; homozygous model, OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.01-2.46, P = .04), but not in Asians or the total population. None of the 5 genetic models suggested a significant association between the -819 polymorphism and HIV-1 infection.

CONCLUSION

The available evidence indicates that the AA genotype of IL-10 -592 may confer increased susceptibility to HIV-1 infection, and that the AA genotype of -1082 may confer increased susceptibility in Caucasians. In contrast, the -819 polymorphism may not be associated with HIV-1 infection risk. These conclusions should be verified in large, well-designed studies.

The Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Uveal Melanoma

Simple Summary

The development of uveal melanoma is a multifactorial and multi-step process, in which abnormal gene expression plays a key role. Recently, several studies have highlighted the role of non-coding RNAs in the progression of uveal melanoma by affecting different signaling pathways. As important agents in the regulation of genes, non-coding RNAs have enormous potential to open up therapeutic pathways, predict response to treatment, and anticipate patient outcome for uveal melanoma. This review aims to provide a comprehensive view of what we know about ncRNAs in uveal melanoma currently.

Abstract

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary intraocular tumor in adulthood. Approximately 50% of patients develop metastatic disease, which typically affects the liver and is usually fatal within one year. This type of cancer is heterogeneous in nature and is divided into two broad groups of tumors according to their susceptibility to develop metastasis. In the last decade, chromosomal abnormalities and the aberrant expression of several signaling pathways and oncogenes in uveal melanomas have been described. Recently, importance has been given to the association of the mentioned deregulation with the expression of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Here, we review the different classes of ncRNAs—such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs)—and their contribution to the development of UM. Special attention is given to miRNAs and their regulatory role in physiopathology and their potential as biomarkers. As important agents in gene regulation, ncRNAs have a huge potential for opening up therapeutic pathways, predicting response to treatment, and anticipating patient outcome for UM.

Comprehensive analysis of the immunological landscape of pituitary adenomas: implications of immunotherapy for pituitary adenomas

PURPOSES

Immunotherapies for solid tumor are gaining traction in the clinic, however, the immunological landscape of pituitary adenomas (PAs) is not well defined. In the present study, we used the RNA-seq data of PAs to investigate the impact of immunological landscape on clinical features of pituitary adenomas and aim to evaluate the potential immunotherapy for PAs.

METHODS

We analyzed tumor-infiltrating immune cells in 115 PA samples using RNA-seq. Main immune cell types (B cells, CD8⁺ T cells, CD4⁺ T cells, macrophages and NK cells) were detected from the expression of genes. The association between immune cells abundance and immune checkpoint, as well as inflammatory factors were analyzed. 10 additional patients were enrolled for validation.

RESULTS

In RNA sequencing data, landscape of PAs were identified. Our computationally inferred immune infiltrates significantly associate with patient clinical features. Growth hormone-secreting adenomas (GHomas) were found with higher B cells and CD8⁺ T cells infiltration. Moreover, GHomas showed relative different genetic background, significant invasive behavior and independently correlated with reduced progress-free time. Tumor progression was related to increased expression of PD-1/PD-L1 and was associated with higher immune infiltration. Analysis of cancer-testis antigen expression and CD8⁺ T-cell abundance suggested CTAG2 and TSPYL6 were potential immunotherapeutic targets in GHomas and non-functioning adenomas, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Tumor-infiltrating immune cells confer important clinical and biological implications. Our results of immune-infiltrate levels in PAs may inform effective cancer vaccine and checkpoint blockade therapies and make it possible to take immunotherapy into invasive PAs.

Plasma levels of soluble HLA-G and cytokines in papillary thyroid carcinoma before and after thyroidectomy

BACKGROUND

Increasing evidence shows that chronic inflammation plays an important role in thyroid tumorigenesis. Cytokines as central mediators in inflammatory microenvironment can present both pro-tumour and anti-tumour effects and cytokine release may be influenced by soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G), an immune checkpoint molecule whose expression can also be induced by certain cytokines.

AIM

To understand the role of these soluble factors in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC).

METHODS

We evaluated plasma levels of sHLA-G and of 13 cytokines using ELISA and flow cytometry, respectively, in PTC patients at two time points: pre- and post-thyroidectomy; and control subjects.

RESULTS

Compared with controls, IL-6 levels were increased, while IL-1β, IFN-α and TGF-β1 levels were decreased in pre-thyroidectomy PTC patients. IFN-α and TGF-β1 efficiently discriminated patients from controls and were associated with extrathyroidal extension and lymph node metastasis, respectively. In addition, TNF and IL-13 were associated with male gender, lymph node metastasis and Hashimoto thyroiditis, and sHLA-G with tumour invasion. Compared with pre-thyroidectomy, IL-4, IL-10, TNF, IFN-α and TGF-β1 levels were increased in post-thyroidectomy.

CONCLUSION

There are significant changes in the cytokine profile after surgical removal of the thyroid tumour, and IFN-α e TGF-β1 showed to be promising cytokines for discriminating PTC patients from controls. We also found that different cytokines are associated with clinicohistopathological characteristics of PTC related to poor prognosis, suggesting that cytokines seem to play an important role in PTC development and management.

Mechanisms of immune suppression by myeloid-derived suppressor cells: the role of interleukin-10 as a key immunoregulatory cytokine

Chronic immune activation and inflammation are unwanted consequences of many pathological conditions, since they could lead to tissue damage and immune exhaustion, both of which can worsen the pathological condition status. In fact, the immune system is naturally equipped with immunoregulatory cells that can limit immune activation and inflammation. However, chronic activation of downregulatory immune responses is also associated with unwanted consequences that, in turn, could lead to disease progression as seen in the case of cancer and chronic infections. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are now considered to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of different inflammatory pathological conditions, including different types of cancer and chronic infections. As a potent immunosuppressor cell population, MDSCs can inhibit specific and non-specific immune responses via different mechanisms that, in turn, lead to disease persistence. One such mechanism by which MDSCs can activate their immunosuppressive effects is accomplished by secreting copious amounts of immunosuppressant molecules such as interleukin-10 (IL-10). In this article, we will focus on the pathological role of MDSC expansion in chronic inflammatory conditions including cancer, sepsis/infection, autoimmunity, asthma and ageing, as well as some of the mechanisms by which MDSCs/IL-10 contribute to the disease progression in such conditions.

Immunological Network in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma-A Prognostic Tool Beyond HPV Status

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a highly heterogeneous disease that affects more than 800,000 patients worldwide each year. The variability of HNSCC is associated with differences in the carcinogenesis processes that are caused by two major etiological agents, namely, alcohol/tobacco, and human papillomavirus (HPV). Compared to non-virally induced carcinomas, the oropharyngeal tumors associated with HPV infection show markedly better clinical outcomes and are characterized by an immunologically “hot” landscape with high levels of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. However, the standard of care remains the same for both HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCC. Surprisingly, treatment de-escalation trials have not shown any clinical benefit in patients with HPV-positive tumors to date, most likely due to insufficient patient stratification. The in-depth analysis of the immune response, which places an emphasis on tumor-infiltrating immune cells, is a widely accepted prognostic tool that might significantly improve both the stratification of HNSCC patients in de-escalation trials and the development of novel immunotherapeutic approaches.

Common Polymorphisms of Interleukin-10 (-1082A/G, -592A/C, and -819C/T) in Oral Cancers: An Updated Meta-Analysis

The mechanisms of genetic alteration are checked to be responsible for the oral cancer incidence. Herein, this meta-analysis aimed to assess the association between -1082A/G, -592A/C, and -819T/C polymorphisms of interleukin (IL)-10 and susceptibility to oral cancer. We systematically searched the PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases until May 2019 to find the studies reporting the association between the IL-10 polymorphisms and the oral cancer risk. Rev Man 5.3 software was used to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The CMA (version 2.0) software showed the results of publication bias. In addition, SPSS (version 22.0) was used for meta-regression analysis. Out of 8 studies included in this meta-analysis, 7, 6, and 5 studies reported -1082A/G, -592A/C, and -819T/C polymorphisms, respectively. The pooled ORs of the allele, homozygote, heterozygote, dominant, and recessive models were 1.64 (95% CI: 1.26-2.13), 2.99 (95% CI: 1.32-6.79), 1.64 (95% CI: 1.16-2.33), 1.77 (95% CI: 1.25-2.49), and 2.44 (95% CI: 1.21-4.92), respectively, showing a significant association for -1082A/G polymorphism, but not for -592A/C, and -819T/C polymorphisms with the risk of oral cancer. However, subgroup analysis showed an association for -592A/C polymorphisms, Caucasian ethnicity, and hospital-based controls. In summary, the findings of this meta-analysis illustrated an elevated risk of oral cancer related to -1082A/G polymorphism, but there was no association between -592A/C and -819C/T polymorphisms and the risk of oral cancer.

Immune Microenvironment of Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer (TC) is a highly heterogeneous endocrine malignancy with an increased incidence in women than in men. Previous studies regarding the pathogenesis of TC focused on the pathological changes of the tumor cells while ignoring the importance of the mesenchymal cells in tumor microenvironment. However, more recently, the stable environment provided by the interaction of thyroid cancer cells with the peri-tumoral stroma has been widely studied. Studies have shown that components of an individual's immune system are closely related to the occurrence, invasion, and metastasis of TC, which may affect response to treatment and prognosis of the patients. This article presents a comprehensive review of the immune cells, secreted soluble mediators and immune checkpoints in the immune microenvironment, mechanisms that promoting TC cells immune evasion and existing immunotherapy strategies. Besides it provides new strategies for TC prognosis prediction and immunotherapy.

Th9 Cell Differentiation and Its Dual Effects in Tumor Development

With the improved understanding of the molecular pathogenesis and characteristics of cancers, the critical role of the immune system in preventing tumor development has been widely accepted. The understanding of the relationship between the immune system and cancer progression is constantly evolving, from the cancer immunosurveillance hypothesis to immunoediting theory and the delicate balance in the tumor microenvironment. Currently, immunotherapy is regarded as a promising strategy against cancers. Although adoptive cell therapy (ACT) has shown some exciting results regarding the rejection of tumors, the effect is not always satisfactory. Cellular therapy with CD4⁺ T cells remains to be further explored since the current ACT is mainly focused on CD8⁺ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Recently, Th9 cells, a subgroup of CD4⁺ T helper cells characterized by the secretion of IL-9 and IL-10, have been reported to be effective in the elimination of solid tumors and to exhibit superior antitumor properties to Th1 and Th17 cells. In this review, we summarize the most recent advances in the understanding of Th9 cell differentiation and the dual role, both anti-tumor and pro-tumor effects, of Th9 cells in tumor progression.

IL-10 suppresses IFN-γ-mediated signaling in lung adenocarcinoma

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a pleiotropic cytokine produced by a wide variety of cells. It has been implicated in cancer progression, and at times, it has seemingly contradictory effects. The impact of IL-10 on immune components in the context of cancer has been intensively investigated, but its effect on cancer cells remains poorly understood. In this study, we examined the expression of IL-10 and IL-10 receptor 1 (IL-10R1) in resected locally advanced lung adenocarcinoma by immunohistochemistry. IL-10 immunoreactivity was stronger in intraepithelial regions than in stroma. The amount of IL-10 found either in intraepithelial or in stromal regions had no prognostic value, but the relative distribution of IL-10 in these two locations was related to cancer-immune phenotypes. High expression of IL-10R1 by tumor cells was significantly correlated with poor prognosis, suggesting that IL-10-mediated signaling may induce cancer cell intrinsic effects that promote cancer progression. Functional analysis using human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines revealed that IL-10 did not directly affect cell proliferation and migration. Incubation of cancer cells with IL-10 suppressed interferon-γ (IFN-γ)-induced STAT1 phosphorylation and inhibited the transcription of IFN-γ-targeted genes, such as CXCL9, CXCL10, and PD-L1. IL-10 enhanced IFN-γ-induced SOCS1 and SOCS3 expression, an effect that might be responsible for the downregulation of STAT1 activity in cancer cells. Our findings provide a rationale for targeting IL-10 on cancer cells as a potential strategy for treating cancer.

Use of STAT6 Phosphorylation Inhibitor and Trimethylglycine as New Adjuvant Therapies for 5-Fluorouracil in Colitis-Associated Tumorigenesis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most widespread and deadly types of neoplasia around the world, where the inflammatory microenvironment has critical importance in the process of tumor growth, metastasis, and drug resistance. Despite its limited effectiveness, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is the main drug utilized for CRC treatment. The combination of 5-FU with other agents modestly increases its effectiveness in patients. Here, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory Trimethylglycine and the Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT6) inhibitor AS1517499, as possible adjuvants to 5-FU in already established cancers, using a model of colitis-associated colon cancer (CAC). We found that these adjuvant therapies induced a remarkable reduction of tumor growth when administrated together with 5-FU, correlating with a reduction in STAT6-phosphorylation. This reduction upgraded the effect of 5-FU by increasing both levels of apoptosis and markers of cell adhesion such as E-cadherin, whereas decreased epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers were associated with aggressive phenotypes and drug resistance, such as β-catenin nuclear translocation and Zinc finger protein SNAI1 (SNAI1). Additionally, Il-10, Tgf-β, and Il-17a, critical pro-tumorigenic cytokines, were downmodulated in the colon by these adjuvant therapies. In vitro assays on human colon cancer cells showed that Trimethylglycine also reduced STAT6-phosphorylation. Our study is relatively unique in focusing on the effects of the combined administration of AS1517499 and Trimethylglycine together with 5-FU on already established CAC which synergizes to markedly reduce the colon tumor load. Together, these data point to STAT6 as a valuable target for adjuvant therapy in colon cancer.

The association between the inflammatory response to surgery and postoperative complications in older patients with cancer; a prospective prognostic factor study

BACKGROUND

Accurate prognostic biomarkers would substantially improve surgical planning and decisions making yet no studies have been reported exploring the inflammatory response in surgically treated older patients with cancer. The aim of this study was to explore inflammatory biomarkers as potential prognostic factors for postoperative complications within 30 days in older patients with cancer.

METHOD

Patients 65 years and older undergoing surgery for removal of a solid malignant tumour were included in an observational cohort study. All complications occurring up to 30 days postoperatively were documented prospectively. Inflammatory markers were measured in plasma samples pre- and postoperatively: C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, and Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Associations between inflammatory markers and postoperative complications were explored using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Between July 2010 and April 2014, plasma samples of 224 patients were collected. Median age was 72 (65-89) years and 116 (51.8%) patients were female. Approximately half of the patients developed postoperative complications (49.6%) of whom 62 patients (55.9%) developed >1 complication. An independent prognostic effect was observed for the inflammatory biomarkers IL-6 and IL-10 for the occurrence of postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

The perioperative inflammatory response is associated with complications, independently from patient and surgical factors which are also associated with outcome. Research is warranted towards further exploration of the perioperative inflammatory response with the aim to improve perioperative care and outcome, and might help to improve surgical planning and decision making for older patients with cancer.

Reverting Immune Suppression to Enhance Cancer Immunotherapy

Tumors employ strategies to escape immune control. The principle aim of most cancer immunotherapies is to restore effective immune surveillance. Among the different processes regulating immune escape, tumor microenvironment-associated soluble factors, and/or cell surface-bound molecules are mostly responsible for dysfunctional activity of tumor-specific CD8⁺T cells. These dynamic immunosuppressive networks prevent tumor rejection at several levels, limiting also the success of immunotherapies. Nevertheless, the recent clinical development of immune checkpoint inhibitors or of molecules modulating cellular targets and immunosuppressive enzymes highlights the great potential of approaches based on the selective disruption of immunosuppressive networks. Currently, the administration of different categories of immunotherapy in combination regimens is the ultimate modality for impacting the survival of cancer patients. With the advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors, designed to mount an effective antitumor immune response, profound changes occurred in cancer immunotherapy: from a global stimulation of the immune system to a specific targeting of an immune component. This review will specifically highlight the players, the mechanisms limiting an efficient antitumor response and the current immunotherapy modalities tailored to target immune suppressive pathways. We also discuss the ongoing challenges encountered by these strategies and provide suggestions for circumventing hurdles to new immunotherapeutic approaches, including the use of relevant biomarkers in the optimization of immunotherapy regimens and the identification of patients who can benefit from defined immune-based approaches.

Associations between genetic polymorphisms in interleukin-10 and hematological oncology: evidence from a meta-analysis

Background: Associations between polymorphisms in interleukin-10 (IL-10) and hematological oncology were already explored by many genetic association studies, with controversial findings. The aim of this meta-analysis was to more comprehensively analyze associations between polymorphisms in IL-10 and hematological oncology by combing the results of all relevant studies.Methods: Eligible articles were searched from Pubmed, Embase, WOS and CNKI. The latest literature searching update was performed on 8 October 2019. We used Review Manager to combine the results of eligible studies.Results: Forty-one articles were included in this meta-analysis. IL-10 rs1800890 polymorphism was found to be significantly associated with hematological oncology under AA vs. TT+TA (recessive comparison, OR = 1.12, 95% CI 1.02-1.24), and rs1800896 polymorphism was also found to be significantly associated with hematological oncology under AA vs. AG+GG (dominant comparison, OR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.83-0.95) in overall combined analyses. In subgroup analyses, we observed positive results for rs1800871 (recessive comparison), rs1800872 (dominant, recessive and allele comparisons), and rs1800896 (dominant and allele comparisons) polymorphisms in the non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) subgroup. Besides, we also detected positive associations between rs1800872 polymorphism and acute leukemia (AL) (dominant and recessive comparisons) and found significant associations between rs1800896 polymorphism and chronic leukemia (CL) (recessive comparison).Conclusion: In summary, this meta-analysis demonstrated that IL-10 rs1800890, rs1800896, rs1800871 and rs1800872 polymorphisms may confer susceptibility to hematology oncology, especially for NHL.

Association between interleukin-10 -1082A/G polymorphism and risk of ischemic stroke: A meta-analysis

The Interleukin-10 -1082A/G polymorphism has been indicated to be correlated with ischemic stroke susceptibility, but the results of studies are still debatable. Thus, a meta-analysis was carried out.Databases including PubMed, Embase, and CNKI were searched. Data were extracted and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.12 case-control studies with 2722 cases and 2405 controls were included in this meta-analysis. IL-10 -1082A/G polymorphism may decrease the risk of ischemic stroke (G vs A: OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.59-0.87; GG vs AA: OR = 0.59, 95% CI:0.48-0.74; AG vs AA: OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.51-0.93; GG+AG vs AA: OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.50-0.84; GG vs AG+AA: OR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.55-0.93). Meanwhile, similar results were also observed in matched studies, hospital-based subgroup, Asians, and large sample-size studies.In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggested that the IL-10 -1082A/G polymorphism contributes to decreased ischemic stroke risk. Further large-scale and well-designed studies are still needed to confirm the results of our meta-analysis.